Creating a Healthy Environment in a Toxic World

 

EMF Health Effects
EMF Health Effects

 

 

The natural world, including your body, produces electromagnetic fields. But these fields are low in intensity. Technology produces much more intense electromagnetic fields, and these fields can cause health risks. You cannot see or hear them. But if you live where there is cell phone service, cell towers or power lines, for example, you are exposed to artificial EMFs.

 

The Electromagnetic Spectrum

The electromagnetic (EM) spectrum is the scientific name for types of photon radiation. Electromagnetic radiation consists of photons (light particles) that travel in a wave-like pattern at the speed of light.

The amount of energy found in these photons forms the various types of electromagnetic radiation in the spectrum, which is expressed in terms of energy, wavelength or frequency.

Frequency is measured in cycles per second (hertz), wavelength is measured in meters, and energy is measured in electron volts. The strength of an EMF depends on its wavelength and frequency. More waves with shorter wavelengths create more energy as you move up the spectrum.

 

What Is the Range of Wavelength of Electromagnetic Waves?

At the low end of the electromagnetic spectrum are extremely low-frequency (ELF) waves. These have longer wavelengths and come from the 50- to 60-hertz power lines that feed household appliances. They can pose health risks, especially when they are close to the body for extended periods.

On the high end is radio frequency (RF) radiation. This comes from cell phones, cordless phones, mobile antennas, broadcast towers, electrical security systems and more. The higher the frequency, the greater the risk to health. For example, microwaves are very-high-frequency radiation, and they can pose a significant health risk. Many cell phone towers operate in the microwave range.

electromagnetic-radiation-in home

How Are Electromagnetic Waves Dangerous?

Bioelectrical signals help to regulate many processes of the human body. In fact, science suggests that every cell in your body might have its own EMF.

However, strong artificial EMFs can enter your body and interfere with the natural way your body works. This can affect virtually any system within your body, from your sleep cycles to your stress levels to your immunities to your DNA.